Posts tagged ‘eating disorders’

Tonight the annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show will air as millions of viewers tune-in from the comfort of their sofas. Men will admire the beautiful models and women will look on, emulating the outfits of the “VS Angels” and even more so their bodies.

There is, however, a lot more going on behind the playful smiles and long tan legs than you may realize.

Brazilian model Adriana Lima reveals her pre-fashion show routine which any health professional would diagnose as Anorexia Nervosa. And yes–I did just suggest that a Victoria’s Secret model exhibits anorexic behaviors. But before you accuse me of falsely labeling Lima, check out what she said!

Weeks leading up to the event, she admits to engaging in a vigorous exercise routine while restricting her food intake. Ingesting only vitamins and liquids to provide energy for intense exercise is not only risky, but it’s consequences on the body are far from pretty.

Don’t worry, Lima wanted to clear things up. Even though she feels it’s okay for her to do it, she told E!, “Those teenagers out there, don’t go starving yourself or only drinking liquids.”

At least she knows it’s wrong.

But seriously, how wrong is it?

Adriana Lima, Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2012

If you think starving yourself to slim down is the way to go– then please… think again.

By starving yourself, you will immediately notice these symptoms:

Tiredness

Low energy levels

Difficulty sleeping at night

Dizziness

Depression

Easily irritated

Constipation

Dry/Pale skin

Hair loss and breakage

Brittle nails

Rotting teeth

Bad breath due to ketosis

Absence of menstruation

Inability to carry out a healthy pregnancy

Not so glam, huh? The list goes on.

If starvation occurs over a long period of time, symptoms only worsen and more serious conditions may develop, like heart failure or early onset of osteoporosis.

Now don’t get me wrong, some women are naturally and beautifully VS-Angel thin…I can’t say I’m one of them.

If you tune into the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show tonight, like I will, then go ahead and let it motivate you to get into kick-ass shape! But please, don’t partake in extreme dieting or unhealthy eating habits to get there. Be confident healthy and strong always! NB